2004 MINI 1.6L Petrol · DM04 LRM

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a pass in February 2026, but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of deferred reactive repairs. The failure on 26 February 2026 at 87,844 miles highlighted significant mechanical neglect, including a major exhaust leak and emissions failures that fell outside specified limits. While the car passed the following day after repairs, the recurring nature of the faults across the brake system and suspension components suggests that issues are only addressed when they reach a failure threshold rather than through a preventative schedule. At 22 years old, the recorded mileage of 87,853 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 4,000 miles per year. However, there is a significant gap in records between the 2024 test at 86,398 miles and the February 2026 test, where nearly 1,500 miles were covered in a short window. This low-usage pattern often indicates the vehicle sits for long periods, which can cause rubber components to perish regardless of distance travelled, as evidenced by repeated warnings regarding cracking tyres. A buyer must inspect the vehicle specifically for the progression of corrosion and leaks. The record shows a persistent oil leak noted since at least 2022, alongside power steering seepage first flagged in 2024. The braking system is a high-priority area; multiple brake pipes showed corrosion or were covered in grease in early 2026, which can mask deeper structural decay. Furthermore, the front suspension, specifically the anti-roll bar linkage joints and arm bushes, has shown consistent wear over the last three years, necessitating a thorough physical check for play and structural integrity.